Replies

1. 
   Sphere | Feb 14, 2005 09:24pm | #1

   MS paint is fine..

   but..if ya want to optimze a cut list..I swear by "cut-list plus"..a great way to optimze sheet goods and solid wood for minimal waste..

   I once used KEY CAD..but I don't think my XP will run it..have not tried actually...I do almost all my newer stuff in plain ol' paint..but Maybe I;am not looking for the same results as you may be.

   Some definition of "furniture" would assist in my recommendations.

    

   Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

   Restoring, Remodeling, Reclaiming The Quality..

1. 
   rustyb | Feb 14, 2005 09:48pm | #2

   I make a lot of custom furniture, such as computer desk with a  credenza and bookshelves, bedroom furniture, dining room furniture, cabinets for an entertainment center.A lot of my designs use standard moldings, some I fabricate for a specific look. I also recycle old wood from doors, exterior post and some trim boards, drawing consumes a lot of my time. and though the designs are very unique and I have to draw them several times to get the right look. I hope a drawing program would help. I have an architectural program that draws houses ( I'm a general contractor ). I need some thing that draws fine lines with standard moldings and that would show a 3d sketch. the more detailed  the drawing the better I can figure construction technique and design.

   thanks rusty

1. 
   Sphere | Feb 14, 2005 10:11pm | #3

   OK...are ya wanting full scale? I had use of a plotter from my first wife..and found that I could render drawings better by the table method..when i got involved with CAD and the programming of the CNC, I lost touch with the nuances..that may be just my quirk.I really don't know your particular circumstances, but maybe ya wanna re-think the "jump on the software " band wagon..many of my clients like the hand drawn rough outs, and like the fact that I can just erase or edit a shop drawing with only a pencil..at thier soon to be replaced kitchen table..I am sorry that I am the only response so far, try over at Knots , they may have your solution..I do not aim for that level of drawing, I actually like my Staedler -Mars stuff..must be the lead...and the stinky erasers.BTW, by the time the drawings get into production, some one has revamped them for production..so all , of your work is moot point.Be well..I am not blasting ya here..just my exp. frothing out. 

   Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

   Restoring, Remodeling, Reclaiming The Quality..

2. 
   DanH | Feb 14, 2005 11:14pm | #4

   I think what you want is some sort of a generalized 3D CAD program, vs an architectural (and generally 2.5D) CAD pgm. "CATIA" (*) is probably the best known, but is priced out of the reach of anyone not part of a multinational company (and probably requires an extra 4 years of training to use).Unfortunately, most programs in this category are primarily intended to drive CNC and other manufacturing equipment, vs to simply produce drawings. But Googling around you can find a few that don't seem to be so tightly tied to the manufacturing side. Here's one, at random:http://www.novedge.com/Start_Design.asp(*) Disclosure: I work for the company that purportedly sells CATIA, but know virtually nothing about it, and might see at most a fraction of a cent in additional money if someone buys a copy.

1. 
   design | Feb 15, 2005 12:40am | #6

   Hi Rusty, it sounds like you want to make yourself a library to use as well.  CAD is what I am most familiar with... and a library would be easy to create in CAD too.    A few manufacturers are providing stock images in 3D (I think)  When I played more with 3d, it seemed I was drawing most of the components myself... but some millwork was starting (this was 4 years ago).  I haven't gotten back into, in my office now, we generally draw 2d, except for some VIZ presentations. 

   If you want 3d, the cheaper LT versions will not do... you will need to go with the full version, which is rather pricey for an individual.

   Cler

2. 
   gdcarpenter | Feb 15, 2005 12:38am | #5

   Fine Woodworking did a review on 5 CAD programs suitable for furniture design, all under $100.00.  It's in the October 2004 issue.

   Let's not confuse the issue with facts!

1. 
   rustyb | Feb 15, 2005 04:22am | #8

   I thank all of you for your input and I will research your your suggestions, again thank you very much.

   rusty

1. 
   Piffin | Feb 15, 2005 06:28am | #9

   You could also try googling up a forum/site caled Woodweb to check out. 

    

   Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

3. 
   SamT | Feb 15, 2005 02:59am | #7

   Google for Blender 3D, Wings, and Pro Desktop.

   While they may not be exactly what you're looking for, they are all free (Pro Desktop free to the first million applicants) and are 3D modelers and CADs